Incoming FCC Chair Agrees to 'Review' Exclusive Phone Deals

Julius Genachowski, nominated to become chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, has indicated that "if confirmed, I will ensure that the full record on the RCA petition is reviewed, and act accordingly to promote competition and consumer choice." The Rural Cellular Association (RCA) had petitioned the FCC to look into the exclusive deals between handset makers and cell phone network operators earlier this year. The issue gained more momentum recently when a handful of senators also asked the FCC to examine the issue. The RCA and senators involved believe that the exclusivity contracts may hinder consumer choice and may be an unfair practice. Genachowski, who made the above remarks in response to questions posed by the senators, has yet to be officially confirmed as the FCC chairman.